It is with great enthusiasm that I write this letter introducing myself as the Principal of Westhaven Elementary School. I am honored to have the opportunity and the privilege to lead this awesome school family. I bring 21 years of experience to the Westhaven Team the last sixteen of which have been with the Portsmouth Public Schools.
As a member of Portsmouth Public Schools I have worked with many students, teaching science at the middle and high school levels. I have also been a Science Specialist for elementary schools. My most recent positions have been as an assistant principal at the Cradock Middle School and Westhaven Elementary School. I am excited to share my knowledge and skills as an instructional leader with the students, staff, and the community stakeholders of Westhaven Elementary School.
My goal as principal is to ensure students are taught in a safe, supportive, nurturing, and encouraging environment. Our theme for the upcoming school year is EXPECTING to EXCEL! We reach excellence by incorporating academic rigor, teaching students to use critical thinking skills, and helping them realize their potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
During this upcoming school year, I will support the instructional team and lead the school to excel in closing the achievement gap and improving student performance in all content areas. This is accomplished by working collaboratively and building positive relationships with our students, parent and guardians, and our education partners in the community.
I welcome your feedback. Your voice is critical to our students’ education. Please feel free to email or call me throughout the school year. I look forward to working as a team to enable our students to soar into excellence. We are EXPECTING to EXCEL!
Best Regards,
Patrizia Grigsby Ph.D.
Principal